Microsoft details pricing, upgrade process for Windows 8.1

Microsoft had already announced that the Windows 8.1 update would come free — available via download from the Windows Store starting Oct. 18 — to users who already own Windows 8 devices.

Today, the company offered some details on prices for those without Windows 8 devices who nonetheless want Windows 8.1.

In the U.S., Windows 8.1 will be available for $119.99 and Windows 8.1 Pro will be available for $199.99. Both will be available via download or at local stores in a DVD package.

More details, including whether Windows 8.1 will work on Windows XP or Vista devices, are here.

Separately, Microsoft also said the release to manufacturing build of Windows 8.1 Enterprise is now available for volume license customers and developers and IT professionals who subscribe to TechNet and MSDN.

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Welcome to Microsoft Pri0: That's Microspeak for top priority, and that's the news and observations you'll find here from Seattle Times technology reporter Matt Day. Send tips or comments to mday@seattletimes.com.